Tuesday, September 6, 2005

Harriet Herndon Royse, born July 18, 1916, died September 4, 2005 , at age 89 after suffering from Alzheimer's Disease for many years. A lifetime resident of Dallas, she was married to Edwin Royse for 61 years before his death in 2001 and is survived by their children, Harry Royse, Rosemary Raley, Elizabeth Joe, and Jane Ladik, eight grandchildren (of whom I am one), eight great grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews. From childhood she was a member of Oak Cliff Presbyterian Church where she served the body of Christ in many ways. Also a leader in her community, she served in PTA, women's clubs, garden club, antique study club; volunteered at parks and museums in Dallas; hosted an American Field Service exchange student, and for several years helped place foreign exchange students with other Dallas families. She had a heart for abused women and the homeless, to whom she gave generously. Harriet lived each of her roles in life with wisdom and grace. She is remembered for her wonderful smile and gentle encouragement and consistent and unconditional love for family and friends.

The memorial service will be held at Park Cities Presbyterian Church at 11:30 a.m. on Friday, September 9. The family will be present during the visitation at Sparkman Hillcrest in Dallas from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m. on Thursday evening, September 8. Donations can be made in Harriet's memory to Alzheimer's Association, 225 N. Michigan Ave., Fl. 17, Chicago, Ill. 60601-7633.